‘Shrek 5’ Delayed for December 2026, ‘Minions 3’ Moving to Summer 2026, Untitled Illumination Event Movie Gets a Summer 2027 Release Date

Universal Pictures is making exciting changes to its animation release schedule, giving fans something to look forward to from two beloved franchises.

DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek 5 is now set to hit theaters on December 23, 2026, moving from its original summer release date of July 1, 2026. The holiday release will align perfectly with the franchise’s 25th anniversary, bringing back the voices of Mike Myers as Shrek, Eddie Murphy as Donkey, and Cameron Diaz as Fiona.

Directed by longtime franchise contributors Walt Dohrn and Conrad Vernon, the movie will also feature Brad Ableson as co-director. Producers include Gina Shay and Chris Meledandri, who are known for their work on other successful animated projects like Trolls and Minions.

Since its debut in 2001, the Shrek franchise has earned over $2.9 billion globally and has become a cultural phenomenon, spawning musicals, theme park attractions, and even a global touring show. The last installment, Shrek Forever After, was released in 2010, and fans are eager to revisit the world of the lovable ogre.

Meanwhile, Minions 3, part of Illumination’s wildly successful Despicable Me universe, will take over Shrek 5’s original July 2026 release slot. This change moves the movie up a year from its planned June 30, 2027 debut.

Directed by Pierre Coffin, who has voiced the mischievous yellow Minions since their debut, and written by Brian Lynch, the film is expected to continue the franchise’s box office dominance.

Illumination’s Despicable Me and Minions movies have collectively grossed nearly $5 billion worldwide, cementing their popularity with audiences of all ages.

Universal has also shifted an untitled Illumination film from March 2027 to the June 30, 2027 date previously held by Minions 3.

Both releases promise to deliver the charm and humor fans have come to expect. With the return of familiar characters and the creative teams behind these hits, it’s shaping up to be an exciting time for animated movies.

What do you think about these upcoming films? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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